‘Pupils shine at this school because they benefit enormously from being part of the ‘St James family’, a supportive and caring community. They are happy and safe in school.’

‘The conduct of pupils in this school, the way they interact with each other and adults, is impeccable – in fact, it is the best I have ever seen’ (Feedback from HMI to School Governors, Local Authority and Diocesan representatives)

Pupils readily respond to leaders’ high expectations evident in the ‘SHINE’ ethos. As a result, they ‘Speak politely, Have respect, follow Instructions, Never say never and Engage positively’ in all that they do

‘Pupils work exceptionally well together’

‘Pupils have excellent attitudes to learning, they are curious and want to achieve their best.’

‘Pupils know what it means to be ‘ready to learn’’

‘Pupils’ conduct is exemplary. They show high levels of respect for each other and for their teachers and teaching assistants.

‘Pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is a strength of the school’

‘The school's work to promote pupils' personal development and welfare is outstanding. Leaders make sure that pupils are cared for exceptionally well’

‘Staff are proud to be a member of staff at this school’

‘Pupils, including the most able, are challenged by their work’

‘Pupils are taught the skills needed to become thoughtful, self-confident citizens, able to express their views and opinions.’

‘Progress overall is much better than that of similar-ability pupils nationally’

‘Key stage 4 outcomes in GCSE examinations demonstrate consistently strong progress over each of the last three years’

‘Parents have highly-positive views of the school and confirm their children are safe and happy at this school. They greatly appreciate the pastoral care and support provided.’

‘Pupils say they feel safe at school, they say there are no bullies and are confident they would be listened to if they shared a concern with a teacher or pastoral leader.’

‘Governors know the strengths of the school and where there are further improvements still to be made.’

‘Pupils enjoy coming to school.’

‘Pupils, including the most able, are challenged by their work because most teachers have high expectations of pupils and plan work which is hard enough for them.’

‘Pupils learn well and make excellent progress because teaching in English, mathematics and most other subjects is consistently good.’

‘Leaders have successfully introduced a more ambitious culture in the school based upon high expectations.’

‘Pupils typically make good progress because teachers have strong subject knowledge, which they use well to plan interesting and challenging work for pupils.’

‘Teaching assistants support pupils well in lessons, including low-ability pupils and those who have special educational needs and/or disabilities, who need extra help.’

St James' Day & Programme of Study

Tuesday 9th May 2017

Last Wednesday we celebrated the Feast of St James, and our morning prayer, form-time prayer and assembly was focused on St James and ‘Faith in Action’. The school Council also planned activities, to mark the feast of our patron saint, and all form groups were given boxes of ‘Celebration’ chocolates to celebrate the ‘feast’. On the same day we were also visited by Mr John McCann, a Diocesan Inspector, who came to look at the Catholic Life of the School and the teaching of Religious Education. His feedback was very positive and complimentary about our school, and we await his report which should be published soon. With us now being in the month of May, we will also be focusing our prayers to our Blessed Mother Mary and in particular praying the Rosary.

Year 11 will be receiving their Programme of Study today, which will be accompanied by a letter from myself, explaining exactly how we will be supporting our Year 11 students in the lead up to and during their GCSE exams, and what will be expected of them in terms of attendance, etc. The Programme of Study doesn’t begin until Monday 15th May, but as it is such a key part of the process of helping our young people achieve their very best, I would ask all parents and carers to familiarise themselves with its content, and if they have any questions to please contact Mrs Livesey, Headteacher for Progress. Please continue to keep all of our young people who are taking exams in your prayers.

Lastly, thank you to all those parents in Year 9 who attended Options Evening last Thursday. All pupils will also be having an interview with a senior member of staff, to discuss their possible curriculum choices. An information booklet had already been sent home with students and a copy is also available on the school website, under Curriculum Overview (Options Booklet – 2017) or click here. If you have any questions or concerns about the options process, please do not hesitate to contact our Deputy Headteacher, Mr Brophy at huw.brophy@st-jamescatholic.stockport.sch.uk.